International Day of Yoga being marked today

KATHMANDU: The 10th International Day of Yoga is being observed today with the theme 'Yoga for Self and Society.'

The government has established the Yoga Day Main Celebration Committee, chaired by Minister for Education, Science, and Technology Sumana Shrestha.

The Committee organised a special programme at the SOS Children's Village in Sanothimi, Bhaktapur, to commemorate the occasion. 

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal attended the programme as the chief guest, according to the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology. Addressing the programme, he expressed the belief that Nepal could be the main destination for researchers and academics throughout the world who are studying the knowledge and science related to yoga.  

Stating that yoga is not only to do with physical exercise, but it also is about a scientific lifestyle and living system to be adopted, remaining in certain rules, procedures and processes, the Prime Minister said yoga helps make an individual physically, mentally and spiritually strong, and to lead a healthy life. 

Government officials, representatives from diplomatic missions, and yoga practitioners participated in the programme. Prior to the main event, a morning procession passed through Pepsicola, Gaththaghar, Lokanthali, and Madhyapur Thimi Chowk, converging at the Children's Village, as reported by Keshav Dahal, the spokesperson for the Ministry.

During a meeting of the Main Committee on June 12, the theme 'Yoga for Women Empowerment' was selected for Nepal. The same meeting decided to send letters to the provinces and local levels to encourage the celebration of Yoga Day, and all Education Development and Coordination Units were requested to involve schools in the festivities.

The United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution on December 11, 2014, designating June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. Since June 21, 2015, this day has been observed globally. The Government of India proposed this initiative in the UN General Assembly.

The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide about the numerous benefits of practising yoga.

Yoga, a transformative practice, embodies the harmony of mind and body, the balance between thought and action, and the unity of restraint and fulfilment. It integrates the body, mind, spirit, and soul, offering a holistic approach to health and well-being that brings peace to our busy lives.